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Welcome back, Ben!

By on February 28, 2013 in Photos, The Nome Static, The Nome Static, 2013 (All), The Nome Static, March 2013

Ben outside KNOM studios

A familiar (and smiling) face graced KNOM studios last month: that of volunteer alumnus Ben Matheson, who donated a week of vacation time to help our mission with our coverage of the Norton Sound 450 (described in more detail elsewhere in our March newsletter).

Ben at the construction site for the Tom and Florence Busch Digital StudiosBen’s presence within our studios was invaluable. A two-year veteran of all things KNOM and rural Alaska, Ben brought his zeal for reporting and for the Arctic to our newest generation of radio volunteers. Ben guided them through the details of each race broadcast, and like all KNOM staffers, he was on hand for the myriad other duties that arise during the day.

Thanks so much, Ben!

 

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What KNOM taught

By on February 28, 2013 in Photos, The Nome Static, The Nome Static, 2013 (All), The Nome Static, March 2013

Matthew deejays

Our feature series on KNOM volunteer alumni continues with Matthew Smith, our public affairs director from 2010 to 2012 who is now continuing his career in news broadcasting with KTVA television in Anchorage. Here’s Matt, in his own words, on what KNOM has already meant to him:

Matthew on the sea iceWhile I’ve only been a KNOM alumnus for a few months, I’m amazed at what the mission has made possible.

I learned about work, community, and myself during my time with KNOM. I learned how to be a reporter, how to find stories and write them in a way that was relevant to listeners in Western Alaska. From interviewing Iditarod mushers to meeting the Russian crew of the Renda as they made the first-ever winter fuel delivery to Nome (pictured at right), my experiences with KNOM made me the reporter I am today.

My time at KNOM also taught me what it means to be part of a small community. As a volunteer EMT, I remember taking blood pressure readings at the community health fair, giving residents of Nome access to blood work and medical exams that were otherwise simply unavailable. I never could have guessed how much being a part of the community in Nome would shape my years of service.

Renda captain Sergey Kopytov, Russian interpreter Michail Shestakov, and Matthew on board the RendaKNOM shaped my spirit, too. The people I met, the stories I heard and told, the connections I formed with roommates, co-workers, and friends: they have enriched my life in uncountable ways. I’m proud – and humbled – to have been a part of the mission, and I can’t wait to see where it goes in the coming years.

As always, we’re so grateful for the people who make our volunteer program possible. As you can see, KNOM continues to change lives: both those of our listeners and of our staff. It’s all thanks to you!

 

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What happened when I said “yes” to KNOM

By on January 29, 2013 in Photos, The Nome Static, The Nome Static, 2013 (All), The Nome Static, February 2013

Lynette and Ric outside KNOM studios, circa 1980s

KNOM Radio has touched the lives of so many people, including its volunteers and staff. This month, volunteer-turned-general-manager Ric Schmidt shares the many ways KNOM has changed his life:

In the summer of 1984, I said “yes” to KNOM, and from that day forward, I was swept into an intense, active ministry that serves so many people on so many different levels. KNOM was such a blessing that, nearly 30 years later, I still find myself working here, serving listeners of all ages and backgrounds.

Along the way, I’ve met lifelong friends and fell in love with a fellow volunteer: KNOM’s news director, Lynette Berger. She fell for me, too, and in December 1985, we were married. We were blessed with six children and the opportunity to work together at the same radio ministry where we met. In a life full of ups and downs, we have been given the chance to weave a quilt of service to each other, our children, our church, our community, and Western Alaska. Over the years, we have said goodbye to too many friends and family, but we have also welcomed the births of new members of our KNOM family and honored those who have made significant sacrifices for us and our communities.

Today, the KNOM family makes a difference in the lives of thousands of families every day, whether it is in the studio, in an Alaskan village, or in countless places around the world, with supporters praying for and contributing to our mission. I am honored and privileged to be a part of our incredible radio ministry.

Ric and Lynette's Wedding

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At year’s end, gratitude and service

By on December 23, 2012 in Stories

As 2012 comes to an end, we thank the entire KNOM family for keeping positive programming beaming to thousands of families. Your support affects listeners across 100,000 square miles of snow-covered tundra and the frozen Bering Sea. The KNOM staff and volunteers appreciate the opportunity to serve remote listeners, 24 hours a day!

We wish you could see the young, enthusiastic volunteers recording, editing, and producing inspirational spots, PSAs, news stories, interviews, music, and many other radio programs. These young professionals work tirelessly to make a positive difference throughout Western Alaska. As we have said in the past, KNOM lights the fire of their desire to make a difference in the lives of everyone. We also remember all the past volunteers and staff that helped build up the KNOM radio ministry.

In recognition of all who donate, pray, volunteer, and help KNOM, we offer our gratitude: thank you, and all best wishes for a healthy, happy, and very blessed 2013.

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Fish and wildlife reports, and help from a KNOM alumnus

By on July 29, 2012 in Photos, Stories
Tom at KNOM's hardware racks

Engineer, technology guru, and former KNOM news director Tom Bunger recently paid a visit to our station and helped us improve our networking and internet connectivity. Here, Tom makes some tweaks to KNOM’s internet wiring. Photo by David Dodman.

Fish are moving upriver, muskoxen are roaming the tundra, and bears are perched at the edge of streams looking for their next meal. Summer in bush Alaska means wildlife and fish reports on KNOM will keep everyone informed and safe.

As summer progresses, our daily high temperatures are typically about 50 degrees, and we have been experiencing record precipitation. We wish we could share our rain with the drought-stricken areas of the “lower 48.” We pray for them and for relief from their extreme dry conditions.

Former KNOM news director Tom Bunger pitched in last week as we worked on technology issues. Tom was visiting Nome and devoted some time to help us streamline our computer and internet operations. His suggestions and work should show immediate savings of $300 to $500 per month.  Thanks, Tom!

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